East Tennessee State’s women’s basketball team survived a sluggish start in Thursday’s home opener, but went on to a convincing 85-59 win over Tusculum College in the Memorial Center. The win was a refreshing one for ETSU head coach Karen Kemp, whose squad opened the 2002-03 season losing five of its first six games, all on the road.
“We came out a little flat tonight,” Kemp said, “but that’s to be expected in our first game at home after being away for so long. “It was good to see us come out in the second half with a little more intensity.”
The Bucs carried a 41-29 lead into the locker room at halftime, following six lead changes in the first half. ETSU extended the lead to 23 points just three minutes into the second half and at one time led by as much as 32 thanks to some big plays from the Buc’s post players. ETSU had four players score in double figures led by Lauren Trantham. Trantham, who recorded her second double-double of the season, tallied 14 points and tied a career-high with 15 rebounds.
Senior Misty Copas and freshman point guard Adrienne Walker scored 13 and 12 points, respectively. Jessica Lonon added 11 points, nine rebounds, and five blocked shots.
The Lady Bucs shot over 45 percent from the floor (35-77), but their three-point woes continued, as ETSU was 0-of-7 from behind the arc.
Julie Maples led Tusculum with 22 points on 9-of-10 shooting from the free-throw line, while Kari Karns added 10 points.
ETSU will enjoy some time off before heading to Coastal Carolina for a Dec. 18 contest versus the Lady Chanitcleers. The match up is set to tip-off at 5 p.m.

Author